2011 Mercedes-Benz ML500

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML500 is a luxury mid-size SUV known for its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and upscale interior. The ML500 features a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2011 ML-Class include a 3.5L V6 (ML350), a 3.0L Diesel V6 (ML350 BlueTEC), and a 6.2L V8 (ML63 AMG). All engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners generally appreciate the ML500’s smooth ride, strong acceleration, and luxurious features. Common dislikes often revolve around higher maintenance costs and the complexity of the vehicle’s electronics.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are observed near the top of the engine, potentially causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC - 722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift, getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. Sometimes, simply replacing the conductor plate and solenoids within the valve body can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration, as well as potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. In some cases, the transmission needs to be rebuilt or replaced as well, due to debris from the damaged converter contaminating the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, the air compressor running constantly, suspension malfunction warning light. This is common on vehicles equipped with the Airmatic system.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air springs, air compressor, or associated valve blocks. Leak detection is important to identify the source of the leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after a few days of non-use.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty door lock actuators, the EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch), or the command unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, steering wheel lock malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacing the EIS. This often requires programming by a qualified technician.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, making excessive noise, or failing to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Inspecting and lubricating the sunroof tracks. Replacing worn or broken components like cables or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND screen freezing, glitching, or not functioning properly. Navigation or audio issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML500, while a luxurious and powerful SUV, can be prone to certain issues, particularly related to its engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs. Owners should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs compared to less complex vehicles. Issues like air suspension and transmission problems can be particularly costly to address. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify potential problems early on.